ROMA – After more than five challenging weeks of treatment at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, Pope Francis has shown remarkable signs of recovery, making his first public appearance since his admission. On Sunday, March 23, 2025, the Pontiff brought immense joy to countless faithful by waving to the enthusiastic crowd gathered outside the hospital from its balcony, marking his initial public sighting since February 14, 2025.
Briefly pausing to greet the devoted supporters who had fervently prayed for his recuperation, the Holy Father, seated in a wheelchair, spoke weakly into a microphone as hundreds of pilgrims cheered his name. “Thank you, everyone,” Pope Francis managed to say. His gestures, a gentle wave from his lap and an occasional thumbs-up, brought smiles and laughter, especially when he lightheartedly remarked, “I can see that lady with the yellow flowers, that’s great!”
The two-minute appearance on the balcony preceded his immediate discharge from the hospital, signaling his return to the Vatican. Upon leaving, the Holy Father was seen departing in a car, still wearing a cannula – a nasal tube used to deliver oxygen – underscoring the ongoing nature of his recovery. Earlier, his doctors had indicated on Saturday that Pope Francis would require at least two months of recuperation at his residence within the Santa Marta guesthouse in the Vatican.
The profound happiness of the pilgrims gathered outside the Gemelli Hospital, where Pope Francis had been receiving care in a special room on the 10th floor, was widely reported by AFP. Larry James Kulick, a bishop from Pennsylvania, USA, shared his sentiments with AFP, stating, “His appearance made me feel very happy, and I think many people here also felt tremendous joy.” He added, “It was a wonderful opportunity to see him, and I believe he responded to so many prayers of the faithful and all the hymns of praise. I hope that can lift his spirits.” Domenico Papisca Marra, a 69-year-old Catholic from Reggio Calabria in Southern Italy, also expressed his overwhelming delight at encountering Pope Francis.
The Pope was driven away in a white Fiat 500 L, first making a significant stop at Santa Maria Maggiore, a revered Rome church where he traditionally pauses for prayer both before and after his travels. Following this meaningful detour, Pope Francis was then seen arriving back at the Vatican, concluding his journey.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who had visited the Pontiff during his hospital stay, conveyed her happiness at his return home. She subsequently expressed on X her “affection and gratitude for his tireless commitment and valuable guidance,” highlighting the widespread appreciation for his leadership. This recent hospitalization marks the fourth and longest stay for Pope Francis since he assumed the leadership of the world’s Catholics in 2013, underscoring the challenges he has faced in recent years while continuing his spiritual mission.
Ringkasan
Pope Francis made a public appearance from the balcony of Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on March 23, 2025, after over five weeks of treatment, waving to supporters and expressing his gratitude. This was his first public sighting since February 14, 2025. He briefly addressed the crowd before being discharged and returning to the Vatican to continue his recovery.
Prior to returning to the Vatican, Pope Francis made a stop at the Santa Maria Maggiore church in Rome for prayer. His release was met with joy by pilgrims and appreciation from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. This was his fourth and longest hospital stay since becoming Pope in 2013.